Dive Site: Abila

Dive site facts: Abila

Current

Variable, moderate to strong (regionally)

Visibility

10–40 m (regionally)

Water temperature

24–30°C (regionally)

Entry

Boat

Level

All levels (current experience beneficial)

Dive type

Wall, coral reef

Night dive

Possible (regionally)

Region / port

Alor, Indonesia

Coordinates

-8.2045, 124.3995

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Alor dive sites, including Abila, are often unpredictable and can range from mild to strong, necessitating careful briefing and readiness for change on site. Divers should be prepared for variable conditions and it is advisable to carry an SMB. The Pantar Strait, where many Alor sites are located, experiences significant water flow from the Pacific to the Indian Ocean, which contributes to the dynamic currents. Visibility is typically excellent, usually over 20 meters and sometimes exceeding 40 meters, ensuring clear views of the sloping reef. Thermoclines are present in Alor waters, with temperatures around 27-28°C but occasionally dropping to 24-25°C, especially in the southern areas. Due to potentially strong currents and varying conditions, divers should be comfortable with drift diving techniques.

Marine life & sighting chances

Nudibranchs

All year · common

Crustaceans

All year · common

Tropical fish

All year · common

Sea turtles

All year · occasional

Barracudas

All year · occasional

Reef sharks

All year · occasional

Pygmy seahorses

All year · occasional

Ghost pipefish

All year · occasional

Frogfish

All year · occasional

Napoleon wrasse

All year · occasional

Eagle rays

All year · occasional

Dolphins

All year · occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

A dive at Abila typically begins with a boat entry, allowing divers to descend directly onto the main reef structure. The dive usually follows the contours of the vibrant coral-covered wall or slope, exploring the rich biodiversity at various depths. Divers will likely drift along the reef, observing the healthy hard and soft corals that adorn the site, while also keeping an eye out for schooling fish in the blue. The dive guide will lead the group through interesting features, pointing out macro life tucked into crevices and larger marine life patrolling the reef edge. The general progression often involves a multi-level profile, starting deeper and gradually ascending, concluding with a controlled ascent and a safety stop typically performed at 5 meters for 3 minutes near the reef, before surfacing to the boat.

Underwater photography

Abila provides diverse opportunities for underwater photography, appealing to both wide-angle and macro enthusiasts due to Alor's varied underwater topography and rich marine life. For wide-angle shots, a fisheye or wide-angle rectilinear lens is ideal to capture the expansive coral formations and schooling fish that populate the site. If you are focusing on the smaller inhabitants, a macro lens will be essential for capturing details of nudibranchs, crustaceans, or other critters found in the crevices. Strong currents in Alor necessitate good buoyancy control to maintain position and stability for clear shots. Consider using strobes to bring out the vibrant colors of the corals and marine life, especially at deeper sections or during cloudy conditions. Always maintain a respectful distance from marine subjects and avoid disturbing the fragile ecosystem.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Munaseli

  Munaseli is a prominent dive site situated off the northern coast of Pantar Island in the Alor archipelago, an area celebrated for its rich…

• Goa Wolang

  Goa Wolang, also known as Wolang Cave, is a distinctive dive site located in South Alor, renowned for its intriguing topography and diverse…

• Halerman

  Halerman is a prominent dive site located in the southern part of Alor, known for its distinct underwater landscape and varied marine life.

• Masjid Ampera

  Masjid Ampera, often referred to as Mucky Mosque, is a celebrated dive site located within Alor's sheltered Kalabahi Bay.

• Mahi Point

  Mahi Point, often referred to as Mahi's Reef, is a celebrated shallow dive site within the Alor archipelago, distinguished by its…

• Beang Abang

  Beang Abang is a renowned night dive site located on Pantar Island in the Alor archipelago, an area celebrated for its rich marine…

Getting there & logistics

Accessing dive sites in Alor, including Abila, typically involves flying into Kupang (KOE) from Bali (DPS) or Jakarta (CGK), followed by a connecting flight to Alor's Kalabahi airport (ARD). Most diving operations in Alor are land-based resorts or liveaboards departing from Kalabahi. Day trips to sites like Abila are conducted via fiber boats, which are well-equipped for diving excursions. Liveaboards in Alor generally offer itineraries ranging from 7 to 12 nights, providing extensive exploration of the archipelago's diverse sites. There are no specific park fees mentioned for individual sites like Abila, but marine park fees for the Alor Islands Marine Park are generally part of the overall dive package. Trips often combine reef diving with muck diving and cultural experiences on the islands, offering a comprehensive Alor adventure.

Safety & environment

For diving in Alor, including sites like Abila, comprehensive dive insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation is strongly recommended due to the remote nature of the region. The nearest recompression chamber is likely located in Bali or Makassar, making evacuation a significant logistical and time-sensitive challenge. Divers must be proficient in buoyancy control and current management, as conditions can be strong and unpredictable. Always dive with an experienced local guide who is familiar with the specific site's currents and topography. Carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) on every dive and know how to deploy it, as drift dives are common. Follow all dive operator briefings and guidelines, and ensure your equipment is well-maintained. Always monitor your bottom time and gas supply, especially when currents are present.

Who it suits, and who it doesn't

FAQ

Abila FAQ

Liveaboards diving Abila

These liveaboards may visit Abila on selected itineraries, the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Naga Biru

Indonesia

12 guests40 m

Jaya

Indonesia

14 guests23 m

Komodo Aggressor

Komodo, Indonesia

16 guests29 m

Blue Manta

Indonesia

20 guests45 m

Gaia Love

Alor

20 guests

Emperor Raja Laut

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

12 guests31 m

Coralia

Indonesia

16 guests48 m

Ilike

Indonesia

16 guests40 m

Mermaid I

Alor

15 guests28 m

Mutiara Laut

Indonesia

14 guests46 m

Neptune One

Indonesia

16 guests38 m

Dewi Nusantara

Indonesia

18 guests57 m